The decision to make Miami your destination of choice for an upcoming vacation doesn't come as much of a surprise for those familiar with the city. The warm sun, sandy beaches, hip nightclubs, and trendy boutiques are enough to make most people pack up their bags and slather on the sunscreen. But there's more than meets the eye when it comes to one of America's hottest cities, literally and figuratively.

When most people think of Miami, South Beach is usually the first thing that comes to mind. The city's most renowned expanse of sand and Atlantic Ocean is the epitome of relaxation. From swimming with the fish to surfing the waves, water skiing or jet skiing, parasailing or wake boarding, taking a walk along the shore or simply laying out in the sun, South Beach is the quintessential vacation spot for beach lovers.

Of course, Miami also offers an outstanding array of culinary experiences available to suit any palate. Those with a proclivity for superb Italian cuisine should visit Scarpetta, one of the city's newest up and coming restaurants whose dinner menu offers dishes such as Duck and Foie Gras Ravioli with a marsala reduction and Mediterranean Brazino 'Acqua Pazza' with cous cous, lobster and tomato broth. Or try Gotham Steak in Miami Beach where you can sample delicacies such as Diver Scallops with roasted cauliflower, brunoise carrot, leek caviar and beurre blanc or Charcoal Grilled Octopus with fingerling potatoes and caperberries.

For the kids be sure to check out the Miami Metro Zoo which is home to over 1,200 wild animals over 740 acres and offers daily shows and tours of the grounds for all visitors. After you've taken plenty of pictures of the giraffes, lions, exotic birds, and rare species, head over to the Seaquarium for some more fun with animals. The aquarium conducts multiple shows and exhibits throughout the day and even offers the option for guests to swim with dolphins. This once in a lifetime experience is one you and your family will be sure to remember forever.

After the kids are asleep and the adults are ready for a night on the town, Miami tourists should check out any one of the many hot and celebrity-packed nightclubs in South Beach. Prive, Opium Garden and Mansion are just three of the local favorites known for their trendy customers, frequent celeb sightings, swank décor and unbeatable drinks. And if the hangover isn't too bad the next day, make sure and take the family to a sporting event as the Miami Heat (NBA), Miami Dolphins (NFL) and Florida Marlins (MLB) all call Miami their home.

Regardless of how you choose to spend your vacation, relaxing or partying, shopping or sleeping, dining or dancing, make sure and spend it in Miami, Florida. You'll be glad you did.